Mississippi

Relationships

Does the state recognize marriages of same-sex couples from other jurisdictions?

NO

Does the state offer any other type of relationship recognition for same-sex couples?

The state constitution prohibits marriage between same-sex couples. Amended in 2004 to say: “Marriage may take place and may be valid under the laws of This state only between a man and a woman. A marriage in another state or foreign jurisdiction between persons of the same gender, regardless of when the marriage took place, may not be recognized in This state and is void and unenforceable under the laws of This state.”

Workplace

Does state law protect employees in the private sector from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation?

NO

Does state law protect employees in the private sector from discrimination on the basis of gender identity and/or gender expression?

NO

Does state law expressly protect employees of state and local governments from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation?

NO

Does state law expressly protect employees of state and local governments from discrimination on the basis of gender identity and/or gender expression?

All government employees are protected by the U.S. Constitution against irrational discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. In addition, some measure of protection already exists under Title VII based on gender, which has been held to include gender identity and expression.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and several courts have interpreted Title VII to protect transgender employees, and the EEOC has interpreted Title VII to cover sexual orientation discrimination. The Supreme Court has held that the EEOC's interpretations of Title VII are entitled to "great deference."

Parenting

Do not appear to be currently available in any jurisdictions. Adverse consideration of gay or lesbian orientation is permitted in custody disputes, but cannot be sole factor. See Morris v. Morris, 783 So.2d 681 (Miss. 2001).